KITUI, Kenya – Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka has strongly criticized President William Ruto’s unilateral decision to select the new IEBC chairperson and commissioners, accusing him of bypassing key principles outlined in the NADCO report.
Speaking at the burial of the late MCA Joel Munuve in Mwingi West, Kitui County, Kalonzo expressed frustration with the lack of consultation, pointing out that his letters to both President Ruto and ODM Leader Raila Odinga regarding the matter had gone unanswered.
The former vice president argued that the selection process undermines democratic principles, asserting that even if Ruto were to appoint himself as the IEBC chairperson, he would still face rejection in the 2027 General Election.
“You cannot be a player and pick a referee,” Kalonzo stated, emphasizing that the move goes against the ideals of fair and transparent electoral processes. He continued, “Even if Ruto makes himself the chairman of the IEBC, we will still send him home come 2027.”
Kalonzo vowed that the opposition would not allow the process to be easy, adding that Kenyans would take matters into their own hands and choose their leader independently of the IEBC.
“We will announce in every polling station, and we won’t need your IEBC. Kenyans will choose their leader themselves,” he asserted.
Kalonzo’s sentiments were echoed by DAP-K Party Leader Eugene Wamalwa, who also condemned Ruto’s actions as a violation of the consultation principles from the Bomas process, a foundational element for the country’s democratic framework.
Wamalwa warned that the opposition would be ready to challenge the president and the process.
On a separate note, Kalonzo addressed the recent death of MCA Joel Munuve, stating that the opposition was awaiting results from additional samples sent abroad to confirm the true cause of his death.
He insisted that political assassinations would not be tolerated, underscoring the need for clarity on the matter.
MCA Munuve passed away on April 22, 2025, and an autopsy revealed that he died from a blood clot.
The opposition, however, has raised concerns about the possibility of foul play and is seeking further investigation.
